Interview with Raul Gil, Prysmian

Can you tell our readers a little about your organisation (e.g. your history in Europe, countries of activity, key projects, partnerships, etc.)?

I hope all of you know Prysmian – if you don’t we have a problem. We are the world’s biggest cable player, so many of you work with us – directly or indirectly. We’ve been operating for around 150 years and our history is long… we started with the business of submarine telegraph! We were pioneers in submarine energy cables in the ‘60s and now, as the leader – it’s our technological leadership that sets us apart. Of course, our vessels, monitoring capabilities, installation capacity (in Europe), is something that is essential for offshore wind power.

Outside of this scope – we produce both energy and digital cables. And one of the few western fibre producers – which is a major area of growth these days.

And we are the no 1 cable player in the United States too – right in the heart of the data center story.

We are living a special moment – but it’s innovation and creating a more sustainable world that connects all of our businesses.

What are the most exciting developments you have seen in the wind industry?

This is proactive, but it’s hope in despair. Every time we read about the strait of Hormuz, every time we read about the wars going on around the world, there is one thing that I, and hopefully all of you think: we need more renewables.

And more renewables like offshore wind means cables to connect them, but also the broader ecosystem of grid upgrades and interconnectors to maximize this investment.

We have a mission. One that is essential. It will be our sector that delivers energy security. Let’s be aggressive and grasp it.

What changes would you like to see in the sector?

I would like us to really make the best value of a European supply chain. I can speak for the cables – we are the global leaders. And this is because we have the best technology, the best full-range of solutions, and we are the biggest in capacity. That is a huge advantage for this sector – creating jobs, creating R&D breakthroughs, world records. This is a sense of pride for us. It should be pride for all of us.

I would like us to be closer and collaborate more and more. We work together, but let’s make our voice stronger.

What role do you see your organisation playing in the future development of wind energy?

It’s hard to imagine offshore wind without us. We have the technological leadership – let me give the example of floating offshore wind – our R&D here is best-in-class to enable the cable technology and together with our customers, we have proven it in action.

So, what I expect – more partnership, more ideas, more R&D. Let’s make the transition as sustainable as possible, economically and environmentally.

How has WindEurope membership benefited your organisation?

It’s a chance for us to learn from what is going on. Perhaps we haven’t always maximised its full potential, but this will change, hopefully.

Looking ahead 10 years, what do you hope to have achieved?

European energy security. Nothing else will be acceptable.